ASHEBORO, N.C. (ACME NEWS) — Local organizations are severing ties with a Randolph County man charged this week with one count of sexual exploitation of a minor.
In January 2025, the Invictus Task Force began an investigation based on a Cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. During the investigation, 25-year-old Lucas Timothy Hunt of Asheboro was identified as a suspect.
On February 25, 2025, Hunt was arrested and charged with one count of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.
Hunt was taken to the Randolph County Detention Center following his arrest, where a magistrate set his bond at $75,000.
Hunt made his first appearance in Randolph County District Court today, where he was represented by an attorney. He later posted bond and was released. His next court appearance is scheduled for March.
Court documents allege that Hunt received materials containing explicit visual representations of minors engaged in sexual activity.
Hunt served as the squadron leader of the Randolph Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, an auxiliary of the United States Air Force. In response to an inquiry, a Civil Air Patrol spokesperson emphasized that the accused actions are “inconsistent with our core values” and stressed that the safety and protection of minors in the cadet program is their top priority.
The Civil Air Patrol said in an email that “the member was immediately suspended, following standard procedures while the incident is being investigated by law enforcement authorities.” As of February 26, Hunt’s contact email had been removed from squadron’s website.
Hunt is also known locally for his role at Thank You Jesus Mission, where he served as a board member and as the creator of the “Thank You Jesus” yard signs the organization is known for.
In response to the arrest, Connie Frazier, president of Thank You Jesus Ministry, issued a statement to FOX8 (WGHP):
“Thank You Jesus has always been about more than one person; it’s about people who love Jesus and want to show their appreciation. Although we cannot comment on the criminal charges against Lucas Hunt, we can share that he blessed thousands of people through the Thank You Jesus Signs.”
As of February 26, 2025, Hunt’s photo and all references to him have been removed from the Mission’s website.
The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office or the Invictus Task Force.
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